Lemon Pepper Chicken

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts (or 4 boneless, skinless thighs)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground for best flavor)
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (adds fresh citrus aroma)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)

For the Lemon Butter Sauce (Optional but Amazing!):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon honey (balances acidity)

For Garnish & Serving:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon slices
• Steamed rice, roasted potatoes, or sautéed vegetables

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels (this helps it sear properly).
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, lemon zest, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the chicken.

2. Cook the Chicken (Choose One Method!)

• Pan-Fry Method (Crispy & Flavorful)
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 75°C).
  3. Remove from pan and set aside.
• Oven-Baked Method (Healthier & Juicy)
  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fryer Method (Crispy & Fast!)
  1. Preheat air fryer to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Spray chicken lightly with oil and air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

3. Make the Lemon Butter Sauce (Optional but Worth It!)

1. In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, black pepper, lemon zest, and honey.
4. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced.

4. Coat & Serve

1. Place cooked chicken back into the pan and spoon sauce over it.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices.
3. Serve with rice, potatoes, or steamed veggies.

Tips for the Best Lemon Pepper Chicken:

✔ Use fresh lemon zest & black pepper – Pre-ground pepper lacks boldness.
✔ Let the chicken rest before slicing – This keeps it juicy.
✔ Want extra crispy skin? Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs.
✔ Balance flavors – Add honey if too tangy or more black pepper if too mild.